Cate Blanchett leads the eclectic cast of “Rumours,” the darkly comedic new film from directors Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson. The film, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival to a mix of praise and criticism, takes a jab at political ineptitude through a bizarre and humorous lens. This cinephile’s delight will hit select U.S. theaters on October 18, 2024. The official trailer is out, hinting at a blend of comedy, apocalyptic horror, and soap opera elements.
“Rumours” unfolds at a G7 summit in Germany, where the top brass of seven wealthy democracies converge to address a global crisis. Among the key players are Blanchett as the German representative, Roy Dupuis as the Canadian, and Nikki Amuka-Bird from the UK. The plot takes a surreal turn when these leaders find themselves lost in the woods, struggling to navigate without their aides. As they wander, the film exposes political incompetence through slapstick moments and droll dialogue, critiquing the farcical nature of power.
Blanchett’s portrayal stands out, contributing significantly to the ensemble’s chemistry. Charles Dance steps into the role of the USA’s representative, while Takehiro Hira represents Japan. The cast is rounded out by Denis Ménochet (France), Rolando Ravello (Italy), and additional performances from Zlatko Buric and Alicia Vikander. A strong ensemble cast delivering uproarious performances gives this film its charm, even if the humor doesn’t sustain its initial momentum.
Despite the film’s chaotic energy and narrative twists, critics have noted that “Rumours” fizzles after an engaging start. The humor, described as “wildly entertaining” in the trailer, often falls short in the context of the film’s entire runtime. Nonetheless, the direction from Maddin and the Johnsons ensures a visually and thematically unique experience, one that benefits from the directors’ knack for blending genres and eccentric storytelling.
In terms of production, the film is backed by producers Liz Jarvis, Philipp Kreuzer, and Lars Knudsen. With the release date fast approaching, audiences can anticipate an unconventional ride through the maze of political satire when “Rumours” lands in theaters this fall.
The film’s initial reception highlights a division among critics, reflecting its polarizing blend of humor and absurdity. Some appreciate the boldness and creativity, while others find it to be a one-note joke dragged out too long. Regardless, “Rumours” is poised to incite discussions with its cast’s remarkable performances, especially Blanchett, who reportedly steals the show.
Closing Credits
“Rumours” promises a satirical exploration of political chaos and comedy, highlighting the absurdities of global leadership. With an all-star cast and a unique directorial vision, the film is set to start a conversation among audiences when it releases on October 18, 2024. Whether it lives up to the humorous hype or not, it’s sure to be a distinct addition to this year’s film roster. Keep an eye out for its debut in select U.S. theaters.
